Last night, Finnish melodic death metallers NORTHER broke the heartstopping news that Jari MÄENPÄÄ would quit WINTERSUN to join NORTHER full time as lead singer/guitarist. Read here: www.norther.net for the band's statement.

Read Jari's exclusive comment on the matter below:

‚ Jukka and me were in the sauna a couple weeks ago and he told me about the open position in Norther. Suddenly I realized how much I missed the rock and roll lifestyle because of being working non stop like a total hermit on my complex project ‘Time’ for Wintersun. Then it came clear what I had to do: leave Wintersun and get back on the road with Norther. Since the guys and I were long time friends and since Jukka was already in Wintersun, it only seemed like the most logical thing to do. The guys didn’t even audition me, since they know I can sing clean vocals and growl as well. So here I am, excited to finally get out there and shred!’